Victory introduces the new 2011 High-Ball, an old-school, plain-looking cruiser motivated by the famous second-generation Freedom 106/6 powertrain. This latest weapon in the brand's arsenal sports a number of unique design cues including blacked-out engine and exhaust pipes.

Photo: Victory

Pomp and ceremony
The company took the wraps off the High-Ball in front of an ecstatic crowd during a special ceremony at the Amsterdam Billiard Hall in New York City. Rich styling and cheap pricing (at $15,069, it's $1,000-$2,000 more affordable than direct rivals) make it especially attractive. This is arguably one of the most successful combinations of style, value and performance in the cruiser segment.

The new Victory stands out from the Vegas and Hammer with a nifty, adjustable ape hanger handlebar that allows the rider to switch between an aggressive chopper-style riding position and a more laid-back stance in typical cruiser fashion. The ultra-low seat makes the bike accessible to even the shortest users while contributing to a striking low-rider look.

Completing the package are 16-inch lace wheels, big Dunlop tires with white sidewalls, matte body paint and a triangular headlight adding a classic yet contemporary touch.

Performance to back it up
Victory did not sacrifice performance one bit. The 2011 High-Ball uses the latest evolution of the company's in-house chassis in conjunction with a Freedom 106 V-twin that cranks out 97 horsepower at 5,000 rpm and 113 lb-ft of torque at just 3,100 rpm – and more importantly, close to 100 lb-ft from as low as 2,000 rpm. Thanks to electronic fuel injection and a balance shaft, this engine makes riding ever so pleasant. At higher revs, it even slings you forward shift after shift.

The High-Ball also makes good use of Victory's most advanced six-speed transmission featuring a new, more progressive hydraulic clutch that requires less effort from the rider while enhancing the mechanical feel and riding excitement.

Soon in a dealer near you
The 2011 Victory High-Ball will land in American showrooms in early March and a month later in Canada. Visit moto123.com in a few weeks for a full review of this magnificent two-wheel masterpiece.

Photo: Victory